CONDOLENCES

Senator CHISHOLM (Queensland—Assistant Minister for Regional Development, Assistant Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Assistant Minister for Resources and Deputy Manager of Government Business in the Senate) (16:50): I acknowledge Mark and the Crossin family as well and pass on my condolences. I did not know Trish as a senator. I only got to know her subsequently after Kate started working for me, after she worked for Senator Walsh and before she started working for Senator Wong.

I wasn't as familiar with Trish's Senate record, but, hearing the changes and what she achieved in 15 years in the Senate—and, I was thinking, only six or fewer of those years would have been in government—it's a remarkable record to have that length of achievement. It shows her capacity to work across the aisle with other senators and make the most of the opportunity before us.

Whilst I hope we never go back to opposition, there'll certainly be inspiration there for us, knowing what you can do when you are back there. As I mentioned, Kate worked for me as well. I only met Trish once, and that was when I was walking back to my office here, when Kate was working for me.

I spotted Trish waiting in the corridor as I was going back there. I got the sense that she didn't want to come and interfere with Kate's work but was sort of hoping to say hello. I saw her and started talking and invited her back to come into the office.

The one thing that became clear to me from getting to know Kate is the impact that Trish had on her family. I've got the sense that she also had that impact on colleagues here and in the Northern Territory and anyone who's come across her. As someone whose mother was extremely influential in my life, I know how influential she's been in Kate and her children's lives as well, and as a partner, but also as a friend and family member.

I know that she will be missed greatly by the family and that these days are difficult. As I said to Kate on Monday when I saw her, there's not a day when you don't think about your mum when she's had an influence on your life, like she has, but it does get easier, and I'm confident that, over time, those memories will be something that you'll cherish and embrace.

You should know that Labor colleagues are thinking of you. So many people across the country are thinking of you. Trish will be remembered for her outstanding career but also for the role model she was and the impact she had on her family and friends.

Vale. Question agreed to, honourable senators joining in a moment of silence.